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Car rental at Des Moines Airport

Driver's age: 26-65

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Top tips for renting a car at Des Moines Airport

  • If you are looking for bargain car rental deals at Des Moines Airport (DSM), compare all the available prices of the onsite rental providers. Also, make your rental car reservation in advance to save more money and book the vehicle you want. You can forgo extras that you don’t need for your trip to cut more costs.
  • If you’re planning a road trip across state lines, you can do so via a car rental at Des Moines Airport. Most onsite car rental providers allow renters to drive out of state, but additional charges may apply. To prevent penalties, ensure you inquire for restrictions, especially mileage restrictions and other details on the out-of-state policy, before signing the rental contract. Also, it is essential to note if you opt for a one-way car rental across the state lines, you face additional charges and payments.
  • If you are traveling with your four-legged friend, you don’t have to worry about getting a car rental at Des Moines Airport. Various onsite rental providers at the airport accept pets in the vehicles. To avoid an additional cleaning fee, return the car reasonably clean and free of pet hair and odors. However, contact your rental provider in advance to inform them about your pet and inquire of any restrictions that may apply.
  • Returning your car rental at DSM Airport is simple since this airport has clear signage guiding you to the car rental return area. If you operate on a full-to-full gas policy, consider filling up your gas tank near the airport to avoid surcharges at the car rental agency. Once at the designated drop-off spot, ensure you inspect your car for any damages and take pictures of the vehicle as proof of its condition. Upon clearing with the car rental agent, remember to ask for a receipt and for evidence that you returned your car on time.
  • Book your rental car at Des Moines Airport at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price

FAQs about renting a car at Des Moines Airport

  • What documents do I require to rent a car at DSM Airport?

    You need to present a valid driver’s license held for at least one year to rent a car at DSM Airport. If you are a foreign renter with a valid driver’s license written in a language other than English, you will be required to present it with an International Driver’s Permit. Also, proof of identification may be required, especially for foreign nationals. Most car rental agencies at Des Moines Airport have set a minimum age requirement at 25. However, drivers under 25 can still rent a car at the airport, but additional charges and restrictions will apply.

  • What payment options are available for Des Moines Airport car rentals?

    Car rental providers at DSM Airport accept various payment options, but credit cards are widely accepted as the primary payment option. The credit card must bear the name of the renter and raised or embossed characters. It is worth noting that virtual, prepaid, and recharge credit cards don’t apply. Typically, major credit cards are accepted, including Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. Nevertheless, debit cards are also allowed by some onsite car rental providers. However, although renting a car with a debit card is possible, additional requirements, charges, and restrictions may apply.

  • Can someone else drive my Des Moines Airport car rental?

    Yes, car rental providers at DSM Airport accept the addition of extra drivers to your car rental. The additional drivers must meet similar car rental age and driver’s license requirements. However, you will incur additional daily charges for each additional driver. It is important to note that you risk being liable for any damages or breach of contract if you don’t register your secondary driver with your rental provider.

  • Which car rental companies will pick you up at Des Moines Airport?

    Car rental companies that offer shuttle or pick-up services from Des Moines Airport to off-airport locations include Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Hertz, National, Payless, and Thrifty.

Des Moines Airport car rental reviews and directory 
All ratings and reviews are collected from KAYAK users with a verified car rental booking. Learn how KAYAK collects reviews.

Hertz

Cleanliness

7.6

Comfort

8.0

Pick-up/Drop-off

7.8

Value for money

7.4

One location in Des Moines Airport

Show locations

Locations in Des Moines Airport

5800 Fleur Drive

+1 515 256 5848

Monday08:00 - 23:59
Tuesday08:00 - 23:59
Wednesday08:00 - 23:59
Thursday08:00 - 23:59
Friday08:30 - 18:00
Saturday08:30 - 18:00
Sunday08:00 - 23:59
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Reviews

8.0 Very good

Anonymous, Dec 2023

Compact

KAYAK
The Hertz team is very laid back and easy to work with. No complaints.

10.0 Wonderful

Susan, Nov 2023

Standard

KAYAK
Great staff at the counter. He helped us find a vehicle that was close by for a frail walker. He answered all of our questions and this was a very pleasant rental car experience.

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Oct 2023

Compact

KAYAK
Great, very smooth process

6.0 Okay

Anonymous, May 2021

KAYAK

Cons:

The vehicle we had reserved had been "given away". We were given an upgrade; however it was not very comfortable. We had reserved a vehicle we knew we would be comfortable in for the long drive. Vehicle was dirty inside - used our own wipes to sanitize. Windshield wipers did not work properly. Was stressful on day 2 of the drive in the rain.

6.0 Okay

Doug, Feb 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

The staff was incredibly helpful and friendly, at the airport.

Cons:

The person I spoke to on the phone, after my initial flight was canceled, could not have been less helpful, or more condescending.

2.0 Poor

Kyle, Jan 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

Nothing

Cons:

They were not open when I arrived and I had to spend 3x as much getting a car from another company

1 out of 8

Budget

Cleanliness

6.7

Comfort

7.3

Pick-up/Drop-off

6.8

Value for money

6.6

One location in Des Moines Airport

Show locations

Locations in Des Moines Airport

5800 Fleur Drive

+1 515 287 2612

Monday08:00 - 23:59
Tuesday08:00 - 23:59
Wednesday08:00 - 23:59
Thursday08:00 - 23:59
Friday08:00 - 23:59
Saturday08:00 - 23:59
Sunday08:00 - 23:59
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Reviews

2.0 Poor

Michael, Oct 2024

Standard SUV

KAYAK
Took an hour in line to get the rental. Counter seemed understaffed.

2.0 Poor

Jill, Sep 2024

Full-size

KAYAK
There was no rental experience with Budget because despite having a confirmed reservation, their counter was closed when I arrived. My flight was delayed getting in. Myself and others had confirmed reservations but the employees left for the evening. Thankfully Hertz was open and had a car for me. Hertz was a great experience.

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Oct 2022

KAYAK
Absolutely wonderful experience ❤️

2.0 Poor

Anonymous, May 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

Staff was friendly and helpful

Cons:

Late fees and charges are outrageous as is charges for gas

8.0 Very good

Alexander, Mar 2021

KAYAK

Cons:

Car had been smoked in.

6.0 Okay

Anonymous, Mar 2021

KAYAK

Cons:

The budget customer service staff needs to work on their customer service experience. Their behavior is what drives this poor review. If you book a car through any of the travel apps they are not inclined to offer you any information Other than what you received while pre-booking.

1 out of 10

National

9.6

Wonderful

Cleanliness

10.0

Comfort

10.0

Pick-up/Drop-off

10.0

Value for money

8.0

One location in Des Moines Airport

Show locations

Locations in Des Moines Airport

5800 Fleur Dr

+1 844 816 4384

Monday07:00 - 23:59
Tuesday07:00 - 23:59
Wednesday07:00 - 23:59
Thursday07:00 - 23:59
Friday07:00 - 23:59
Saturday07:00 - 23:59
Sunday07:00 - 23:59
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No reviews available

Alamo

8.7

Best rated

Cleanliness

8.5

Comfort

8.8

Pick-up/Drop-off

8.7

Value for money

8.6

One location in Des Moines Airport

Show locations

Locations in Des Moines Airport

5800 Fleur Dr

+1 844 816 4385

Monday07:00 - 23:59
Tuesday07:00 - 23:59
Wednesday07:00 - 23:59
Thursday07:00 - 23:59
Friday07:00 - 23:59
Saturday07:00 - 23:59
Sunday07:00 - 23:59
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Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Aug 2024

Minivan

KAYAK
Liked prompt pick up and easy return. Vehicle was good.

10.0 Wonderful

Babatunde, Jun 2024

Pickup truck

KAYAK
Excellent customer service and friendly staff. Fast easy check in and check out. New rental that was clean and extra disinfectant wipes provided as a courtesy. Will definitely rent again from Alamo.

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Mar 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

Staff was very helpful picking up and returning. Very convenient location in the airport and the cars are right outside the door in the baggage claim area

6.0 Okay

CT, Aug 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

Nice sized suv

Cons:

The gas gauge was way off. No horse power.

9.6 Wonderful

Ryan, Jan 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

Staff was super helpful. Class of vehicle rented wasn't available so they provided an upgrade and reduced the price for the trouble. Would highly recommend!

2.0 Poor

Anonymous, Mar 2023

Intermediate SUV

KAYAK
They wouldn’t rent to me

1 out of 3

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

8.5

Cleanliness

8.4

Comfort

8.3

Pick-up/Drop-off

8.3

Value for money

7.9

One location in Des Moines Airport

Show locations

Locations in Des Moines Airport

5800 Fleur Dr

+1 844 996 0646

Monday07:00 - 23:59
Tuesday07:00 - 23:59
Wednesday07:00 - 23:59
Thursday07:00 - 23:59
Friday07:00 - 23:59
Saturday07:00 - 23:59
Sunday07:00 - 23:59
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Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Jul 2024

Standard SUV

KAYAK
Staff at service counter was very friendly & helpful.

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Jun 2024

Standard

KAYAK
They stayed open late so I was able to pick up my rental. Get customer service!!!

5.6 Fair

Anonymous, Jun 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

Pick up was easy, drop off was just a drop box since it was a Sunday evening.

Cons:

The whole 3 hour drive we kept having large ants crawling on us! So gross and annoying.

3.6 Poor

Sergio, Apr 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

Yes

Cons:

i booked and have always use my bank of america debit card for my car rentals and was denied my reservation cause i dont have a major cc when i have done it for years and thru enterprise before.

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Jul 2023

Compact

KAYAK
Everything seemed to be quite satisfactory. I enjoyed the size of the car and all went well. No problems! Thank you!

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Jul 2023

Convertible

KAYAK
Great experience with this rental

1 out of 5

Dollar

6.9

Okay

Cleanliness

7.5

Comfort

7.5

Pick-up/Drop-off

6.0

Value for money

7.5

One location in Des Moines Airport

Show locations

Locations in Des Moines Airport

Lc Pending Close Dec 1st

+1 866 434 2226

Monday08:00 - 23:59
Tuesday08:00 - 23:59
Wednesday08:00 - 23:59
Thursday08:00 - 23:59
Friday08:00 - 23:59
Saturday09:00 - 17:00
Sunday08:00 - 23:59
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No reviews available

Thrifty

Cleanliness

8.5

Comfort

6.5

Pick-up/Drop-off

6.5

Value for money

6.0

2 locations in Des Moines Airport

Locations in Des Moines Airport

5800 Fleur Drive

+1 877 283 0898

Monday08:00 - 23:59
Tuesday08:00 - 23:59
Wednesday08:00 - 23:59
Thursday08:00 - 23:59
Friday08:00 - 23:59
Saturday09:00 - 17:00
Sunday08:00 - 23:59

Lc Pending Close Dec 1st

+1 877 283 0898

Monday08:00 - 23:59
Tuesday08:00 - 23:59
Wednesday08:00 - 23:59
Thursday08:00 - 23:59
Friday08:00 - 23:59
Saturday09:00 - 17:00
Sunday08:00 - 23:59

Filters

Show reviews that mention

Reviews

8.0 Very good

Anonymous, Jul 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

staff was very friendly. Drop off was confusing as it was no longer Thrifty but Hertz

9.6 Wonderful

Dave, Mar 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

The entire experience could not have been easier and more convenient.

2.8 Poor

Anonymous, Dec 2019

KAYAK

Cons:

My car stopped working. Had to get an uber to get where I needed to go. The lyft they got me didnt even bring me to the right place to pick up my car at first. I had an extremely disappointing experience.

Payless

Cleanliness

7.4

Comfort

7.2

Pick-up/Drop-off

6.1

Value for money

6.8

One location in Des Moines Airport

Locations in Des Moines Airport

5800 Fleur Drive

+1 515 256 5228

Monday08:00 - 23:59
Tuesday08:00 - 23:59
Wednesday08:00 - 23:59
Thursday08:00 - 23:59
Friday08:00 - 23:59
Saturday08:00 - 23:59
Sunday08:00 - 23:59

Filters

Show reviews that mention

Reviews

8.0 Very good

Jerry, Oct 2023

Compact

KAYAK
Gave me the keys and sent me out to the lot. The car was not there, which they didn't believe so they went out and found I was right. Went back to their storage, found a car after while. Wasted a lot of time................

10.0 Wonderful

Renota, Dec 2020

KAYAK

Cons:

Thanks y’all are great

7.2 Good

Tax, Sep 2020

KAYAK

Cons:

Way too long of a line to pick up the car

4.4 Mediocre

Anonymous, Feb 2020

KAYAK

Cons:

Will never use them again. Insane after-the-fact price hijacking and terrible service. I have been renting cars several times a year for years. I had never used Payless before but needed to book something about a week in advance of the date. It was about $300 to book for 3 days which was already expensive but when I picked up the car they tacked on another full day because they charge by the “24 hours” not by the day, which was already absurd. They would not budge on the cost, which was a surprise upon pickup. When I picked up the car the total came to over $600! For 3 days with a car! They wouldn’t explain the Huge increase except that it was a high demand time and that’s just the cost of the car. Awful experience. Will stick with the better name brands that are fair and honest about pricing.

2.0 Poor

Cheryl, Aug 2023

Full-size

KAYAK
I waited 90 minutes for a car for which I was already late by over an hour to pick up. The car I was given was a 2 seater tiny car and I had rented a mid sized car similar to a Camry. I got a Miata which was not an ideal vehicle for why I rented it. The gal at the counter was surly and rude.

6.0 Okay

Tyler, Jun 2023

Standard SUV

KAYAK
I returned the car on time and 3 days later got a text saying I need to return my car. It required follow up to resolve the issue and a bit of unneeded anxiety.

Avis

Cleanliness

6.2

Comfort

6.6

Pick-up/Drop-off

6.2

Value for money

6.6

One location in Des Moines Airport

Locations in Des Moines Airport

5800 Fleur Drive

+1 515 256 5623

Monday08:00 - 23:59
Tuesday08:00 - 23:59
Wednesday08:00 - 23:59
Thursday08:00 - 23:59
Friday08:00 - 23:59
Saturday08:00 - 23:59
Sunday08:00 - 23:59

Filters

Reviews

8.0 Very good

Anonymous, Oct 2023

Full-size

KAYAK
Great

8.0 Very good

Anonymous, Apr 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

The service was good. I really liked the car, clean and nearly new. Good experience and better rates than other rental companies.

Cons:

Tried to call the rental location several times and never got someone to answer. Customer service these days is the way to stay ahead of the rest.

6.0 Okay

Ben, Sep 2023

Intermediate

KAYAK
Returning the car to DSM airport was a bit strange.

8.0 Very good

Anonymous, Sep 2022

KAYAK
The pick up and drop off was simple. The car looked like it had been rear ended at some point. The windows were pretty dirty, However the interior was clean. I got a larger car than I reserved so I was happy overall.

2.0 Poor

Anonymous, Mar 2022

KAYAK
The customer service was not good. Was given a hard time and was not helpful. Wasn’t able to pick up car and had to rent a car with another company.

1.9 Poor

Andrew, Aug 2021

KAYAK
They did not rent us a car. We booked three months in advance. The lady at the desk was extremely rude and unhelpful. All of our plans depended on having a one way rental. They did not honor it. It ruined our trip. I am writing to their corporate office and the BBB. I’m furious.

American Rent-A-Car

4.5

Cleanliness

7.0

Comfort

5.5

Pick-up/Drop-off

4.7

Value for money

4.5

One location in Des Moines Airport

Locations in Des Moines Airport

5800 Fleur Rd

+1 515 644 5255

Opening times not available

Filters

Reviews

2.0 Poor

Anonymous, Jun 2023

Compact

KAYAK
I had a reservation and when I got there they told me they didn't have a car for me.

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Feb 2023

Full-size

KAYAK
I wasn’t thrilled that they make you give them a positive online review BEFORE you get your car.

4.0 Mediocre

Anonymous, Feb 2023

Compact

KAYAK
Friendly counter staff, but they were making everyone scan a QR code and give them a 5 star review before they would give you a car. Very odd. They also charged way too much for this car but I needed it and they were the only ones with cars. It’s a fine line between charging what the market will bear and price gouging. The car was smaller (and cheesier) than what I ordered. It was like driving a Coke can. Finally, when my plans changed and I needed to return the car early, they would not refund the difference. They cited a paragraph in their contract, which was literally far too small to read. Overall not a good experience.

2.0 Poor

Anonymous, Jan 2023

Compact

KAYAK
I showed up to get my rental car and the office was closed. I could never get the car I reserved.

2.0 Poor

Anonymous, Aug 2022

KAYAK
Had to wait for an hour at the counter when we dropped off the car because the company only had one employee working and apparently he was on lunch break. Almost missed our flight because of it. Would not book a rental vehicle with this company again.

2.0 Poor

Anonymous, Jun 2022

KAYAK
When I arrived at the counter, I was told that I could not rent a car because I had not arrived on an incoming flight. This was never mentioned prior to my arriving to pick up the car. I needed the car for a family emergency, and no other companies had cars available. I will never try to rent from American again. I will also not likely ever use Kayak again.

Airport Van

5.0

Fair

One location in Des Moines Airport

Locations in Des Moines Airport

4410 Merle Hay Road

+1 877 826 4680

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

Easirent

4.6

Mediocre

One location in Des Moines Airport

Locations in Des Moines Airport

Des Moines International Airport

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

Sunnycars

No score available yet

One location in Des Moines Airport

Locations in Des Moines Airport

Fleure Drive & Army Post Road

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

VIPCars Recommendation

No score available yet

One location in Des Moines Airport

Locations in Des Moines Airport

5800 Fleur Dr, Des Moines, , USA Iowa

+1 914 368 0091

Monday00:00 - 23:59
Tuesday00:00 - 23:59
Wednesday00:00 - 23:59
Thursday00:00 - 23:59
Friday00:00 - 23:59
Saturday00:00 - 23:59
Sunday00:00 - 23:59

Filters

No reviews available

179 travelers who rented a car in Des Moines Airport gave the car agency they used an average rating of 4.9

Car rental locations at Des Moines Airport

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